Unusual Stays in Reunion Island: bubble, dome, glamping or lodge
Dreaming of a getaway out of the ordinary in Reunion Island? Book an unusual stayand treat yourself to a night to remember somewhere unconventional. Here's a checked selection of the island's 4 most iconic spots, from the wild south (dome, glamping) to the cirques (Cilaos bubble) and the western Hauts (Lodge Roche Tamarin).
An unusual night is one of the most memorable experiences a stay in Reunion Island can offer. Four main concepts stand out on the island: the transparent bubble tent (for sleeping under the stars), the geodesic dome (an unconventional design dating from the 1960s), the glamp (a blend of glamour and camping, with hotel-level comfort) and the premium lodge (a wooden bungalow deep in nature).
Rates range from €130 to €180 a night. That's pricier than a standard hotel, but the experience is what you're paying for. For couples, or families with older children, it's worth booking for at least one night of your trip.
If you'd rather sleep out in nature for free, see my wild camping section (31 free spots). For classic camping comfort, see the island's 11 campsites (from €5/person).
The essentials on unusual stays
The island's 4 unusual stays
€130-150★ 8.8/10 (83 reviews)C Cibeaulaos, Sleeping in a Bubble in Cilaos
Cilaos
From €150 / night★ 7/10 (308 reviews)Domaine de Petite-Île, Geodesic Dome
South
From €163 / night★ 8/10 (191 reviews)Glamping at Gadiamb City, Saint-Pierre
South
From €180 / night★ 7.8/10 (1091 reviews)Lodge Roche Tamarin, La Possession
West
Which unusual stay suits your trip?
You want the most immersive experience under the stars. C Cibeaulaos in Cilaos is the one to pick. The bubbles' transparency and the cirque's minimal light pollution make the experience unique. Rated 8.8/10, from €130.
You want the most upscale option. Lodge Roche Tamarin in La Possession (wooden bungalows, suites with a jacuzzi, pool, spa) or Gadiamb City (glamps with a private cocoon bathtub). Rates from €163-180.
You want striking architecture. Domaine de Petite-Île with its geodesic domes. Note that it is currently under renovation, so check before booking.
You're travelling as a family with children. Gadiamb City, with its farm, ponies and Sunday brunch buffet, is probably the best suited. Lodge Roche Tamarin also has family spaces.
How much does an unusual stay cost in Reunion Island?
| Stay | Area | Rate | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cilaos Bubble | Cilaos | €130-150 | 8.8/10 (83 reviews) |
| Petite-Île Dome | South | From €150 | 7/10 (308 reviews) |
| Gadiamb City | South | From €163 | 8/10 (191 reviews) |
| Roche Tamarin | West | From €180 | 7.8/10 (1091 reviews) |
FAQ: unusual stays in Reunion Island
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Not tempted? Other places to stay
11 campsites (from €5/person)
From Mafate (budget gîtes reachable on foot) to the 3-star L'Ermitage Lagon. My checked selection.
Gîtes (from €19/person)
For hikers in the cirques (Mafate, Salazie), with half-board Creole meals and a genuine local feel.
31 wild camping spots (free)
Areas set up by local councils or the national park. Seafront, forest, cirque, summit.